Postdoc: Polymer Synthesis & Protein Encapsulation

Brigham Young University; United States; On-site; USD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Job summary

Brigham Young University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Chemistry & Biochemistry focusing on organic and polymer synthesis and self-assembly. The position is full-time in the Hurst Lab, with a startup package and eligibility for medical benefits; renewable for up to 2 years.

Responsibilities include developing polymer-based protein mimics, mentoring students, publishing results, and collaborating across national laboratories.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. is required.
• A degree in Chemistry is preferred, with an emphasis on Organic Chemistry and/or Polymer Chemistry.
• Related degrees also considered are other synthetic emphases, Biochemistry, or Chemical Biology.
• The required degree must be completed by the start date.
• Strong background in organic and/or polymer synthesis including air-free synthesis.
• Strong communication skills and a demonstrated record of scientific productivity.
• Experience with soft matter self-assembly.
• Experience with cryogenic electron microscopy.
• Experience with protein-based assays.
• Demonstrated track record of interdisciplinary collaborations.
• Experience in mentoring undergraduate or graduate students.

Responsibilities

• Lead the synthesis of a wide library of cyclic carbonate monomers for ring-opening polymerization.
• Evaluate the copolymerization of cyclic carbonates using NMR and GPC.
• Study protein encapsulation and protein activity.
• Perform cryogenic electron microscopy on polymer-protein samples to determine size and morphology.
• Potentially collaborate with national laboratory personnel to collect small-angle X-ray scattering.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers in the lab.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication and present research at conferences.
• Assist with grant writing and preparing progress reports.
• Conduct independent, high-quality research aligned with the university goals.
• Uphold high standards of integrity, scientific rigor, and reproducibility.
• Maintain clear and organized notebooks, data, documentation, and regular reports.
• Engage with co-workers and contribute to a positive, collaborative lab culture.
• Represent BYU professionally in publications, presentations, and collaborations.

Skills

Communication skills

Mentoring

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Laboratory leadership

Education

PhD in Chemistry or related

Tools

Cryogenic electron microscopy

NMR

GPC

Job description

Brigham Young University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Chemistry & Biochemistry focusing on organic and polymer synthesis and self-assembly. The position is full-time in the Hurst Lab, with a startup package and eligibility for medical benefits; renewable for up to 2 years.

Responsibilities include developing polymer-based protein mimics, mentoring students, publishing results, and collaborating across national laboratories.